April 5, 2017:The Ministry of Education takes this opportunity to clarify incorrect statements and media reports suggesting the suspension of a school principal by the Ministry of Education.

Firstly, the Ministry of Education has no authority to make appointments or promotions and transfer, neither to confirm appointments, or to remove and exercise disciplinary actions over members of the teaching service. This responsibility has been reserved to the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) according to Section 125 of the Constitution of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

In this case, the principal of the Mayaro Government Primary School, Mr. Andy Paul, has been instructed by the Teaching Service Commission to cease to report for duties while an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the injury suffered by the student, is being investigated. This action is in accordance with the provisions of Regulation 88 of the Public Service Commission Regulations Chapter 1:01 of the Laws of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.

The Teaching Service Commission has requested of the Ministry of Education to investigate the allegations of misconduct which have been made against Mr. Paul.

The Ministry of Education reiterates that Mr. Paul has not been suspended. Suspension is a form of disciplinary action that is taken against and officer who has been found guilty of misconduct.

Mr. Paul will be given every opportunity to state his position relating to the incident that took place at the Mayaro Government Primary School on Wednesday 1st February 2017.At this time no guilt has been attributed to Mr. Paul.